Ford Explorer recalled over injury risk

Recall date

March 3, 2026

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Official notice title

Ford Motor Company recalls 2025–2026 Ford Explorer

Recall number

26V121000

Brand / firm

Ford

Sold / distributed

Potentially affected: 35,772 units

Why it was recalled

A headlight that turns incorrectly can result in increased glare to other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.

What was recalled

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer vehicles. The Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) system software may cause the passenger-side headlight to turn in the wrong direction when driving through curves in the road. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

What to do

The headlight control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C12. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.. Follow the official notice for full instructions.